WORLD NEWS

Former Supreme Court judge Markandey Katju has issued a stern warning regarding the potential economic consequences of war between India and Pakistan. Speaking in a recent interview, Katju criticized the rhetoric of Indian military officials advocating for war, calling their statements “nonsense” and stressing the catastrophic impact such a conflict would have on both countries.
Katju, who has been an outspoken critic of militaristic approaches to international disputes, reminded Indian leaders that both India and Pakistan are nuclear powers, making the consequences of war far more severe. He emphasized that a military conflict would not only result in loss of lives but would also have a crippling effect on India’s economy.
“The economic damage India would suffer from a war with Pakistan would be irreversible,” Katju said. He explained that the aftermath of such a war would include a significant decline in foreign investment, disrupted trade, and a severe setback to economic growth, potentially crippling the nation’s financial prospects for years to come.
Katju’s comments come as India continues to increase its military readiness in the face of growing tensions with Pakistan. However, he appealed to the Indian leadership to avoid emotional and rash statements, urging them to pursue peace and dialogue rather than escalate tensions.
Reflecting on the volatile situation in 2019 following the Pulwama attack, Katju praised Pakistan for demonstrating restraint and responsibility during that crisis. He noted that Pakistan’s measured response helped ease tensions and prevent further escalation, underscoring the importance of maintaining calm in such charged situations.
As India and Pakistan navigate increasingly strained relations, Katju’s remarks serve as a reminder of the dire consequences of war, particularly for two nuclear-armed nations, and the need for diplomacy and restraint to avoid a disastrous outcome.